Reliability of assessments by skilled observers using the Glasgow Coma Scale.
The management of patients at risk of neurological deterioration is often centred around serial assessments made by nursing and medical clinicians using the Glasgow Coma Scale. Although accepted throughout the world as a reliable and consistent tool for such assessments, little work has been done to validate the original claims of reliability. In this study a very high degree of inter-rater reliability was demonstrated between registered nurses (RNs) who were educated and experienced in use of the scale. Implications for clinical practice are discussed.
Fielding
K
K
Rowley
G
G
D003128:Coma / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D009730:Nursing Assessment